Hadith #1291

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the qualities of a true believer. It states,

A believer is moderate in [times of] affluence, [and] keeps away from the [pleasures of this] world.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (afifun) "عَفِيفٌ" in Arabic, translated as "moderate" or "temperate," refers to a person who maintains a balanced and moderate approach in all aspects of life. This moderation is not limited to material wealth but extends to one's behavior, desires, and ambitions. The believer does not become excessive or extravagant in times of affluence, nor does he become attached to the temporary pleasures of this world.

The word (mutanazzahun) "مُتَنَزَّهٌ" in Arabic, translated as "keeps away from," signifies a deliberate and conscious effort to distance oneself from the allurements and temptations of worldly possessions. It implies a state of detachment, where the believer recognizes the transient nature of worldly pleasures and chooses to prioritize the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of moderation and detachment from worldly desires. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the need for balance and stability in all aspects of life, seeking sustenance from Allah rather than being consumed by worldly possessions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against being attached to the transient nature of this world, saying,

Wealth and children are an adornment of the life of this world. But the good righteous deeds, that last, are better with your Lord for rewards and better in respect of hope.

This verse emphasizes the importance of focusing on righteous deeds and the eternal rewards they bring, rather than being preoccupied with material wealth and worldly attachments.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us that a true believer is not swayed by the fluctuations of affluence or poverty. In times of abundance, they remain moderate, using their wealth to benefit themselves and others without falling into extravagance or wastefulness. They recognize that wealth is a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and should be used responsibly.

Moreover, the believer keeps away from the allurements of this world, understanding that true contentment and fulfillment lie in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter. They prioritize acts of worship, kindness, and charity over the pursuit of material possessions, recognizing that these worldly pleasures are temporary and fleeting.

By embodying the qualities mentioned in this Hadith, Muslims can cultivate a balanced and moderate approach to life, avoiding the extremes of excess and negligence. They can find contentment in the remembrance and obedience of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure above all else. This moderation and detachment from worldly desires lead to inner peace, spiritual growth, and a focus on the ultimate goal of attaining Paradise.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of moderation and detachment from the pleasures of this world. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, emphasizing the need for balance, contentment, and a focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. By embodying these qualities, Muslims can navigate the challenges of life with wisdom and piety, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all their actions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the teachings of this Hadith and lead a life of moderation and detachment.